Gaston Fence

Rev it up and go when you head to the Richard Petty Driving Experience. This highly unique, hands-on attraction offers you a chance to experience racing like the pros as you receive instruction from professional race car drivers and their crews. Whether you're a serious driver or a serious fan, you'll feel the unmistakable rush when your tires hit the track. There are various packages available that range from individual driving lessons to 30 and 40 laps around the track.

Your child's inquisitive mind is always primed for discovering new things, and he or she will absolutely love all of the adventures that await them at Discovery Place. The venue offers so many different types of exhibits and experiences that you and the family can easily spend a whole day taking it all in. Learn about a variety of subjects like anatomy, physics, natural science, mechanics and much more. As if all those exhibits and attractions weren't enough, make sure to see Discovery Place's aquarium, rain forest, planetarium and numerous activity areas.

Charlotte's Festival in the Park takes place every September in Freedom Park and offers locals and visitors a chance to celebrate the spirit of the city in a variety of ways. There's live music, great food, and a large selection of arts and crafts created by local artisans that truly capture the spirit of the area. There are also several displays of art from local, regional and even nationally recognized talents. Just be prepared for a long walk into the park, as parking spaces are at a premium and often the only one you'll find is relatively far away - just look at the walk as a chance to enjoy the scenery and bond with fellow festival-goers.